why make this recipe
This 15-Minute Dinner by Ina Garten is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It is quick, easy, and delicious, making it perfect for anyone who wants to put a tasty meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. The flavors are fresh and satisfying, and you will love how simple it is to prepare a delightful dish in no time.
how to make Ina Garten’s 15-Minute Dinner
Ingredients :
- 1 pound of pasta (like fusilli or penne)
- 2 cups of cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for spice
Directions :
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water, as this adds flavor to the pasta.
- While the pasta cooks, wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half.
- In a large bowl, combine the halved tomatoes, chopped basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can add red pepper flakes here if you like some heat.
- When the pasta is ready, drain it and add it directly to the bowl with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
- Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and give it one last toss.
- Serve immediately while it’s fresh and warm.
how to serve Ina Garten’s 15-Minute Dinner
This dish is perfect on its own but pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. You can also add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein if you want a heartier meal.
how to store Ina Garten’s 15-Minute Dinner
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just remember to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
tips to make Ina Garten’s 15-Minute Dinner
- Use good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Fresh tomatoes taste fantastic, but you can also use canned tomatoes in a pinch.
- Adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the dish.
- Feel free to customize the veggies according to what you have on hand.
variation
You can switch up the ingredients by adding other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers. You can also use different cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, for a varied taste.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can omit the cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative, and you will have a tasty vegan meal.
2. What type of pasta works best?
While fusilli and penne are great choices, you can use any shape of pasta you like. Just keep an eye on the cooking time.
3. How can I make this dish spicy?
Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture or use a spicy olive oil for an extra kick!
15-Minute Dinner
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (like fusilli or penne)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes Washed and halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil Use good quality for best flavor
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Optional Ingredients
- to taste crushed red pepper flakes For spice, optional
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Sprinkle on top before serving
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in salted water.
Preparing the Tomato Mixture
- While the pasta cooks, wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half.
- In a large bowl, combine the halved tomatoes, chopped basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
Tossing Everything Together
- When the pasta is ready, drain it and add it directly to the bowl with the tomato mixture.
- Toss everything together until well combined.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and give it one last toss.
Serving
- Serve immediately while it's fresh and warm.